10 Ways to Avoid Carjacking
When people talk about self defense issues, they usually focus on training in martial arts techniques or some other form of physical activity. It makes sense that we conjure up images of strong kicks and strikes when the words “self defense” are spoken; as the term is usually associated with martial arts techniques like we see in movies or on TV.
Any kind of training in self defense is good for any individual as long as its techniques are precise and effective. Hand to hand combat training is one of my favorites. I like it because it is the type of training that goes beyond martial arts techniques and gets into fast and easy moves to help you get away from a fight should you need to.
Today we aren’t talking about getting away from an actual fight; at least I hope you never experience a fight through carjacking. Carjacking is something that happens, and when you learn about it and plan for it; you can hopefully avoid it and keep yourself safe. Here are 10 ways to avoid carjacking.
- Park in well lit areas when out at night
- Run your errands during daylight hours whenever possible
- Use valet or get an escort to your car when out on the town
- When getting into your car, get in quickly and lock the doors. Then start your car and get on your way. Do not linger in a parking lot or parking garage.
- Be aware of other vehicles when parking in a lot. Do not park next to a vehicle with someone sitting in the passenger seat.
- When stopped in traffic or at a light, leave enough room between you and the car in front of you to maneuver out if you need to.
- Wear your seatbelt. Doing so makes you less of a target for carjacking because it will be harder to pull you from the car.
- If you are driving and get lost, find a place of business where you can stop for directions. Do not ask other drivers or people on the street!
- Stop for gas during daylight hours.
10. Carry pepper spray in your vehicle or purse.
When you are in your car, you need to be just as aware as when you are walking down a busy street. It is important that you watch what is going on outside and around you. Remember, it isn’t hand to hand combat training that makes all the difference; it is your level of awareness that keeps you out of trouble.
Carjacking is just another crime of opportunity. You become a target when you walk through parking lots unaware of your surroundings. Carjackers do not show preference to any specific type of vehicle; they don’t want only Escalades or high end cars.
In a worst case scenario, a carjacker will simply hop in the car with you. These people are typically armed and so there is advice out there that you should just do what a carjacker tells you to do. However, there is also advice that if you do actually get caught in the car with a carjacker, you just get yourself into a car accident. The carjacker usually has other things on his mind and so will not put on a seatbelt. Your seatbelt and air bags will deploy when you hit something, your carjacker will be disarmed by the blow, and you will call a good deal of attention to your vehicle in the process.
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